In mechanical engineering, there are often several variants of a machine that differ in terms of their range of functions, configuration, and topology of the connected devices. The I/O Connection Manager in the LASAL automation software from SIGMATEK ensures that communication between the control and the connected I/O is flexible and scalable.

2025 marks a significant milestone for BPX, as it celebrates its 60th anniversary. To celebrate, BPX has planned a series of activities and events throughout the year with the first event taking place at the end of April at Oulton Hall, close to Leeds.

Machine builders are beginning to implement artificial intelligence (AI) for a variety of tasks, such as predictive maintenance and control systems. If AI is used within control systems, there can be safety implications. For example, AI might determine how a robot reacts when a person enters its operating zone. Derek Coulson, compliance specialist at Hold Tech Files, explains.

maxon has enhanced its ESCON2 speed and current controller with CANopen communications. The update is available with new firmware and applies to controllers already in use as well as new products. ESCON2 operates with DC and brushless DC (BLDC) motors. Additional firmware developments have also improved the device's speed control capabilities.

Rockwell Automation has announced the launch of the M100 Electronic Motor Starter, enabling industrial organisations to simplify panel wiring and reduce component and engineering complexities with advanced functional safety solutions and more refined motor starting capabilities.

Innovation in stepper motor technology means the gap between stepper and servo technology is narrowing. The new, optimised EMMB-ST and EMMT-ST stepper motor family from Festo can be used in conjunction with the CMMT-ST servo drive controller to create a coordinated servo system at an attractive price.

The latest smart heavy duty encoders developed by sensor specialist Baumer are said to be ideal for demanding heavier industrial applications, such as aggregates, steel, materials handling, ports, cranes and paper mills. They meet the needs of monitoring applications which include asynchronous motors.

OMRON has celebrated the grand opening of a new Automation Centre in Stuttgart, reaffirming its commitment to innovation, excellence and customer-centric solutions in industrial automation.

Motion Control Products (MCP) is excited to introduce the AK Series EtherCAT Bus Motion Controllers with I/O module expansion from Kinco, offering a new generation of medium-sized motion control systems.

WEG is set to showcase its latest innovations at SPS Italia 2025, taking place from May 13 to 15 in Parma, Italy. WEG will highlight its advancements in motion drives, control solutions and digital technologies, reinforcing its commitment to improving industrial efficiency across key sectors such as metal, plastic, logistics, water and paper.